Big Crowds Expected At Air And Water Show

(CBS) -- It is one of Chicago's most anticipated events and more than a million people are expected for the annual Chicago Air and Water Show.

The average crowd is about 1.7 million people. CBS 2's Jeremy Ross reports the city estimates that the crowds mean about $78 million in business activity -- from hotels to spending at restaurants.

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are the show's top draw each and every year -- what you might call a perfect wingman for the show.

Several aviators will demonstrate precision acrobatics all with permission to buzz the tower and portions of the lakefront.

If you're looking for more than jets and planes -- you'll be wowed by parachute and helicopter demonstrations.

The acrobatics can be seen from Oak Street all the way up to Fullerton but if you're in the need for aviation speed, North Avenue Beach is the place to be.

The event runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., so if you're trying to avoid the traffic -- stay away from Lake Shore Drive from the start through the late afternoon.

If you can't make it out, the Air and Water Show will be streamed live at airandwater.cbslocal.com/live and you can listen to WBBM Newsradio 780 and 105.9 FM.